Subaru’s PZEV Compact Cross-Over, The 2015 XV Crosstrek

For 2015 Subaru has enhanced their compact cross-over vehicle the XV Crosstrek.

New to the Crosstrek are a more efficient PZEV engine, a preventative safety system dubbed ‘Eyesight’, and improved connectivity.

First off lets find out what PZEV is.

PZEV stands for Partially Zero Emission Vehicle. Any vehicle with a PZEV rating must meet very strict emission standards and run on gasoline.

In fact, a PZEV engine is so efficient at controlling pollution and the burning process is so complete, that the air coming from the exhaust can be cleaner than the air going into the engine.

Subaru achieves this extra greenness in 4 ways.

First, by means of a catalytic converter that is larger, and has finer mesh screening allowing for a more thorough conversion of pollutants.

Second, the use of better sealing fuel injectors that will not allow fuel to leak into the intake manifold.

Third, by preventing unburned gasoline fumes from escaping through the air intake when the engine is shut off. These hydrocarbons are collected in a charcoal canister within the intake system.

And fourth, by ECM programing which heats up the exhaust system, of a cold engine, more quickly allowing the catalytic converter to work sooner.

No that we know what PZEV is lets move on.

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek is available with Eyesight technology. This system is made up of two forward cameras and is responsible for adaptive cruise control, lane departure and sway warning, pre-collision throttle management, and pre-collision braking.

Now standard for 2015, is a 6.2 inch colour touch screen for the media center, Bluetooth, iPod/USB connectivity and audio integration.

Their is only engine choice, a 2L flat 4 cylinder which puts forth a dismal 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque.

Every Crosstrek model comes with all wheel drive and either a 5 speed manual or CVT transmission.

A hybrid will deliver 7.9 L/100km (30mpg) city and 6.9 L/100km (34mpg) highway.

On the road you will notice the ride is smoother and vibrations are less prevalent than the last version. This is thanks to the use of more insulation and silencers.

The interior has been updated across the range, but the Limited package has a 7 inch navigation touch screen (operated in the same swiping and scrolling manner as a tablet), voice operated SMS text messaging and iTunes tagging ability.

With a base price of $24,995 CA, $21,595 U.S., the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek offers up improved safety and efficiency, in a small but capable package.

Hopefully, an STI version is in the works, with way more HP.

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About The Author

Robert is a lifelong car nut. He works as a Technician with 16 years experience and has multiple trade licenses. Having worked on vehicles ranging from Porsche's, fire trucks, trains, and industrial/mining equipment, he has a varied and broad knowledge base to draw on. But his favorite thing to do is drive, be it on two or four wheels.